Lake Norman residents have something less picturesque to consider during their summer excursions: a harmful algae bloom (HAB) lurking in one of their favorite coves. According to an announcement by Charlotte-Mecklenburg Storm Water Services, spotted first was an unsettling sight of bright green and bluish water, accompanied by surface scum indicating the unwelcome presence of cyanobacteria, a type of algae known for producing toxins hazardous to human and animal health when ingested.
While we often think water hazards are those we can see and dodge, these microscopic threats don't afford us such luxury, it's not possible to tell if a bloom is dangerous just by eye, so caution becomes the watchword, and the advisory currently cautions against activities such as swimming, boating, and fishing, among others, in the affected waters. The risks are particularly acute for pets and children, who might accidentally ingest or come into contact with contaminated water.
Should contact with the tainted waters occur, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Storm Water Services recommends immediate and thorough washing of oneself or seeking urgent veterinary or medical attention depending on whether a pet or a person is affected.
The situation is volatile, but not without recourse - residents can assist by promptly reporting any sight of algal bloom to relevant authorities at NCDEQ or SCDES in North Carolina and South Carolina respectively; such vigilance is essential in helping manage this ecological threat. To help local residents stay updated on the situation text-based notifications have been arranged via MECKNOSWIM which can provide rapid updates on water advisories within Mecklenburg County; a public service that could be a crucial tool as the community navigates through these murky waters.
Original reporting by Charlotte-Mecklenburg Storm Water Services, whose staff will continue to monitor the situation, promises to keep the community informed until the HAB's resolution has been confirmed.
